Fatherhood and the vasectomy reversal

Half a million men have vasectomies each year in the U.S. But what happens if they change their minds and want to start a new family? A vasectomy reversal could be the answer.

As a male infertility specialist, I work with many couples seeking a vasectomy reversal. The most common reason for a reversal is remarriage and the new couple’s desire to have children together. Another reason for a reversal is the death of a child.

The likelihood of a successful vasectomy reversal depends primarily on the length of time that has passed since the man’s vasectomy. Most couples, and even doctors, are pleasantly surprised at the figures.

This chart shows vasectomy reversal success rates at different time intervals. The data comes from a national study that was published in the Journal of Urology in 1991.

A vasectomy reversal is a delicate procedure that requires the surgeon to use a powerful microscope while suturing together the vas deferens, tiny tubes that are the width of a piece of spaghetti.

Like all extremely specialized and technical procedures, the best results are usually obtained by surgeons with extensive training in microsurgery and who perform many vasectomy reversals each year. Selecting a doctor who is fellowship-trained in microsurgery ensures that your surgeon meets the guidelines established by the American Society of Reproductive Medicine, the leading reproductive society in the U.S.

A vasectomy reversal costs between $4,500 and $9,000 and, the expense is rarely covered by insurance so men must think carefully before undergoing a vasectomy. But for those men who’ve had the snip find and themselves wanting to be a father again, it’s encouraging to know a reversal is a possibility.

In my next post, I’ll explain the reversal operation and the different surgical techniques.